Reform Live: distribution and cultural promotion
The live area is currently the focus of two new developments: a genre-neutral distribution and a modern way of promoting culture in the live sector. You can find all the latest news here as well as opportunities for becoming involved.
Reform Live information
Under agenda item 26 at the last General Assembly in May 2024, GEMA provided information on a reform process. The Supervisory Board and the Managing Committee have undertaken to cease categorising music as “serious music” (E) and “entertainment music” (U) in distribution and cultural promotion, and to adopt a genre-neutral approach here instead. It is intended that the membership should be informed early on and involved in the development.
GEMA places musical works in one of two categories: serious music (E) or entertainment music (U). This distinction – viewed by many with criticism – has thus far been a central parameter for distribution and promotion of royalties in the live area. The U and E categories are no longer appropriate where the creation of music today is concerned. It is no longer possible to assign many works unambiguously to one of these categories. What is more, the collection for classical e-works continues to decline overall; the reasons for this include terms of protection expiring for works in the classical repertoire that are played very frequently. GEMA has to take account of the changed market environment.
The General Assembly will decide on the new distribution plan.
If you wish to share something with us, please write to the address reformvorhaben2025@gema.de. You can find out about further opportunities for involving yourself as a member in the programme of events below.
Veranstaltungsprogramm
Open digital discussion group
In this format, we provide a space for our members and GEMA staff to talk openly. The number of participants for this event is limited; please register ahead of time.
Open digital discussion group
